When it comes to comforting, satisfying meals, few dishes can compare to a hearty plate of spaghetti. But what if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist on this classic? Fear not! We’ve got 18 delicious and innovative meatless spaghetti recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and please even the pickiest eaters.
From creamy parmesan sauces to bold, spicy arrabbiata flavors, our collection has something for every palate. Whether you’re a fan of rich and indulgent or light and fresh, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of meatless spaghetti recipes, from classic combinations like garlic butter and zucchini to more adventurous pairings like roasted butternut squash and garlicky kale. So grab your fork and get ready to dig in – it’s time to spice up your spaghetti game!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a rich and creamy twist with this recipe for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti. With a flavorful combination of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of creaminess, this spaghetti dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and creamy garlic sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Spaghetti
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with this bold and flavorful Arrabbiata sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, arrabbiata sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti. Add the spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti
This Italian-inspired dish is a simple yet flavorful take on classic spaghetti. The roasted garlic adds a deep, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich olive oil and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, salt, and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic-infused oil.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Spaghetti
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil with al dente spaghetti, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
5. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss again.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms and spinach on a bed of spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the mushroom-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Broccoli
Brighten up your pasta game with this zesty and aromatic recipe, combining the freshness of lemon and garlic with the simplicity of spaghetti and steamed broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups broccoli florets
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic.
4. Once spaghetti is cooked, drain and add to the skillet with garlic-lemon mixture. Toss to coat.
5. In a separate pot, steam broccoli florets until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve spaghetti with steamed broccoli on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the comfort of spaghetti. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto sauce over medium-low heat.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and garlic to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to soften.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, adding a spicy kick from chili flakes. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil mixture.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Spaghetti
Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Spaghetti: A flavorful twist on classic spaghetti, this dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the nutty taste of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, then slice the flesh into strips.
4. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
6. Add the roasted red pepper strips and toasted walnuts to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the pepper and walnut mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Zucchini
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of sautéed zucchini and aromatic garlic butter. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, garlic butter mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Spaghetti with Caramelized Onions and Thyme: A Classic Twist on a Timeless Favorite
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful twist on traditional spaghetti, elevating the classic dish with sweet caramelized onions and fragrant thyme.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the thyme sprigs to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti and caramelized onion mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss the pasta, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Avocado and Lime Spaghetti
Experience the bright flavors of Mexico with this refreshing twist on traditional spaghetti! This recipe combines the richness of avocado with the zesty tang of lime, all wrapped up in a deliciously light and silky sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine mashed avocado, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and warm.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the avocado-lime sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Creamy Cashew Alfredo
Transform your pasta game with this rich and creamy Spaghetti with Creamy Cashew Alfredo, featuring the subtle nutty flavor of cashews.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup cashews
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, butter, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. In a large skillet, combine the cashew mixture, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until well combined.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until well coated.
5. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tomato and Eggplant Spaghetti
A creative twist on traditional spaghetti, this recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the meaty texture of eggplant for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to break down.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, roasted eggplant, and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Lemon Ricotta and Peas
This light and refreshing spaghetti dish is perfect for a springtime dinner party or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of lemony ricotta, sweet peas, and garlic gives this classic pasta a bright and flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, parsley, and garlic. Mix well to combine.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the ricotta mixture and toss until coated.
4. Stir in thawed peas and reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capers and Lemon Spaghetti
This recipe combines the sweetness of lemon with the tanginess of capers, creating a refreshing and flavorful pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add lemon juice, capers, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon-caper sauce.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Roasted Butternut Squash
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and nutritious recipe, featuring roasted butternut squash as the star of the show. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
7. Add roasted butternut squash to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
8. Toss cooked spaghetti with the squash mixture, season with salt and pepper, and top with Parmesan cheese.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spaghetti with Garlicky Kale and White Beans
A hearty, one-pot pasta dish that combines the creaminess of garlic-infused kale and cannellini beans with the simplicity of spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 4-5 minutes).
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in cannellini beans and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and garlicky kale mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with these 18 flavorful meatless spaghetti recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to sun-dried tomato and basil, there’s something for every palate. Discover unique flavor combinations like roasted red pepper and walnut, or capers and lemon. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike, these creative dishes will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing option or a rich and creamy one, this collection of recipes has got you covered!
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